Arunachalam Temple, famously known as Arunachaleswarar Temple, is a revered Hindu shrine located in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the sacred element of Fire (Agni). Known for its spiritual energy and divine aura, the temple attracts devotees from all over India, especially during major festivals like Maha Shivratri and Karthigai Deepam.
Sprawling across 25 acres, Arunachaleswarar Temple is not just a center of worship but also an architectural masterpiece. Its grand Dravidian-style gopurams, sacred temple tanks, and vast courtyards reflect the rich heritage and craftsmanship of ancient South Indian temple architecture.
This complete Arunachalam Temple guide 2025 provides all the essential information for a smooth and fulfilling visit, including darshan timings, ticket booking process, types of darshan, daily rituals, temple festivals, and travel tips. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned pilgrim, this guide ensures you make the most of your spiritual journey to this iconic Shiva temple in Tamil Nadu.
Arunachalam Temple Tiruvannamalai Overview 2025
Arunachalam Temple, also known as Arunachaleswarar Temple, is a sacred Lord Shiva temple in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, renowned for its spiritual and architectural significance. As one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams representing the fire element (Agni), this temple draws thousands of devotees year-round, especially during Maha Shivratri and Karthigai Deepam.
Here’s a quick glance at the key details of Arunachaleswarar Temple:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Arunachalam / Arunachaleswarar Temple |
| Location | Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu |
| Dedicated To | Lord Shiva (as Arunachaleswarar) |
| Architectural Style | Dravidian Architecture |
| Temple Area | 25 Acres |
| Spiritual Significance | Fire element of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams |
| Main Festivals | Karthigai Deepam, Maha Shivratri |
| Best Time to Visit | October – December |
| Darshan Timings | 5:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
| Booking Mode | Online & Onsite Available |
| Official Website | annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in |
Travel Tip: For a serene and peaceful experience, plan your darshan in the early morning or late evening when the temple is less crowded.
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Timings 2025 | Tiruvannamalai Lord Shiva Temple
Planning your visit to Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai? Here’s the complete daily darshan schedule for devotees in 2025. These timings are designed to ensure a smooth spiritual experience for pilgrims.
| Days | Event | Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Mon–Sun | Temple Opens | 5:00 AM |
| Mon–Sun | Morning Darshan | 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Mon–Sun | Temple Closed for Break | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Mon–Sun | Evening Darshan | 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM |
Important Notes for Devotees:
- Festival Darshan: During major festivals like Maha Shivratri and Karthigai Deepam, temple timings may be extended to accommodate more devotees.
- Special Darshan & Rituals: Devotees can participate in Abhishekam, Archana, and Annadanam both online and onsite.
- Official Verification: Always check the official Arunachaleswarar Temple website before visiting for any last-minute timing updates.
- Best Visiting Hours: Early morning or evening darshan is recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy a serene spiritual experience.
Arunachalam Temple Darshan Ticket Prices 2025
If you are planning a visit to Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai, understanding the darshan ticket types and pricing is essential for a smooth experience. The temple offers multiple options to suit all devotees, from general darshan to premium experiences.
| Darshan Type | Price (INR) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free | Standard entry for all devotees |
| Special Entry | ₹50 | Faster access than general darshan |
| Fast Track | ₹100 | Priority entry, shorter waiting time |
| VIP Darshan | ₹200 | Guided assistance, less crowd |
| Silver Darshan | ₹500 | Comfortable entry with better access |
| Gold Darshan | ₹1,000 | Priority darshan with guided support |
| Platinum Darshan | ₹2,000 | Exclusive entry, peaceful experience |
| Diamond Darshan | ₹5,000 | Premium VIP access with personalized guidance |
Highlights for Devotees:
- Priority Access: VIP, Platinum, and Diamond darshans ensure priority entry, allowing devotees to avoid long queues.
- Guided Assistance: These premium darshans include guidance from temple staff, making the visit more convenient and enriching.
- Peaceful Experience: Opting for higher-tier darshans offers a serene and focused spiritual experience amidst the temple’s divine ambiance.
How to Book Arunachalam Temple Darshan Online 2025
Booking your Arunachaleswarar Temple darshan online ensures a smooth and hassle-free visit. Follow these simple steps to secure your darshan ticket in advance:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the Annamalaiyar Temple Official Website.
Step 2: Navigate to Temple Booking
Click on “Temple Booking Service” on the homepage.
Step 3: Select Darshan Type
Choose your preferred darshan option: General Darshan, Special Darshan, VIP, or Seva Darshan.
Step 4: Choose Date and Time
Select your preferred date and time slot for the darshan.
Step 5: Enter Personal Details
Fill in your Name, Age, Address, Gender, and enter the captcha code for verification.
Step 6: Make Payment
Complete the payment using Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
Step 7: Receive Your E-Ticket
Your darshan e-ticket will be sent to your registered mobile number or email.
Pro Tips for Devotees:
- VIP, Platinum, or Fast Track Darshan is recommended during weekends and festivals like Maha Shivratri and Karthigai Deepam to avoid long queues.
- Carry a copy of your e-ticket and a valid ID proof during the visit.
- Always check the official website for any last-minute updates on darshan timings or special events.
Best Time to Visit Arunachalam Temple Tiruvannamalai 2025
Planning your trip to Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai? Choosing the right season ensures a peaceful darshan and a memorable spiritual experience. Here’s a detailed guide:
Winter (October – February):
- Ideal weather for darshan and Girivalam (temple circumambulation).
- Festivals like Karthigai Deepam are celebrated, adding to the spiritual ambiance.
Summer (March – June):
- High temperatures; early morning darshan is recommended.
- Pleasant for photography and temple sightseeing if visited early.
Monsoon (July – September):
- Surroundings are lush and serene due to rainfall.
- Weekends can be crowded; plan visits on weekdays for a peaceful experience.
Pro Tip: Visiting between October and December combines festivals, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time for a spiritual pilgrimage.
Arunachalam Temple Travel & Visiting Tips:
- Dress Modestly: Follow traditional temple customs; wear appropriate attire.
- Arrive Early: Reach 30–45 minutes before your booked darshan slot to avoid last-minute rush.
- Carry Essentials Only: Large bags are not permitted inside the temple.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle, especially during summer months.
- Respect Rituals: Maintain silence during poojas and rituals to preserve the temple’s spiritual atmosphere.
- Follow Temple Guidelines: Listen to temple staff and signage for a smooth visit.
Arunachalam Temple Festivals & Spiritual Practices 2025
Arunachaleswarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai is not only a center of devotion but also a hub of grand festivals and spiritual practices. Experiencing these events enhances the spiritual journey and connects devotees deeply with Lord Shiva.
Girivalam (Pradakshina)
- What it is: Circumambulating Annamalai Hill (approx. 14 km) barefoot is considered highly auspicious.
- When to do it: Most devotees perform Girivalam on full moon nights for maximum spiritual merit.
- Spiritual Significance: It is believed to cleanse sins and grant blessings of Lord Shiva.
Karthigai Deepam
- Event Highlights: A massive flame is lit atop Annamalai Hill, symbolizing Lord Shiva as the eternal light.
- When it Happens: Celebrated annually during November–December.
- Devotee Experience: Thousands gather to witness the grand illumination, participate in rituals, and soak in the temple’s divine energy.
Maha Shivratri
- Significance: Considered the most spiritual time to visit Arunachaleswarar Temple.
- Activities: Devotees participate in midnight abhishekam, special poojas, and cultural programs.
- Devotional Experience: The night-long celebrations create a powerful spiritual atmosphere, drawing pilgrims from across India.
Arunachalam Temple Contact Details 2025
For any inquiries regarding darshan, ticket booking, rituals, or festivals, you can reach out to Arunachaleswarar Temple authorities using the following official contact information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Sannathi Street, Tiruvannamalai – 606601, Tamil Nadu |
| Phone | 04175-252438 |
| jceotvm_20343.hrce@tn.gov.in | |
| Official Website | https://annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in |
Visitor Tips:
- For online darshan bookings, festival updates, and special sevas, always use the official temple website.
- Contact the temple directly via phone or email for queries about VIP, Platinum, or Diamond darshan tickets.
- Keep these details handy when planning your visit to Arunachaleswarar Temple Tiruvannamalai for a hassle-free experience.
Arunachalam Temple Darshan FAQs
Q: When is the best time to visit Arunachalam Temple?
A: October to December, especially during Karthigai Deepam and Maha Shivratri.
Q: What are Arunachalam Temple’s daily darshan timings?
A: Morning 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and evening 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM.
Q: Can I book Arunachalam Temple darshan online?
A: Yes, online booking is available for General, Special, and VIP darshan.
Q: How much is the VIP or Special Darshan ticket?
A: Special Darshan is ₹50, VIP ₹200, Platinum ₹2,000, and Diamond ₹5,000.
Q: What is Girivalam and how is it performed?
A: Girivalam is walking barefoot around Annamalai Hill (14 km), ideally on full moon nights.
Q: Which festivals are most significant at Arunachalam Temple?
A: Karthigai Deepam and Maha Shivratri are the major festivals attracting devotees.
Q: Are there crowd-free darshan options?
A: VIP, Platinum, and Diamond darshan provide faster entry and fewer crowds.
Q: How to reach Arunachalam Temple in Tiruvannamalai?
A: The temple is easily accessible via road, railway (Tiruvannamalai Station), and nearest airport in Chennai.
Q: What is the temple’s official website for bookings?
A: https://annamalaiyar.hrce.tn.gov.in
Q: Can I attend special rituals like Abhishekam or Archana?
A: Yes, special rituals are available online and onsite for devotees with bookings.